Anticipation of Christmas better than Christmas itself? Any tips to counteract that, please?! .

[BlueBrush]

I do really like Christmas, and I really enjoy the run-up to it, but after Christmas Day, I very quickly feel everything goes a bit flat. I try to put off doing many Christmassy things too soon (so I think I only had my second mince pie on Christmas Eve). But it always feels as if we've had so much of it by the time we get to 25th, that everyone feels very jaded.

So - I know that's partly just modern life, but does anyone have any tips for keeping just a little bit of magic a little bit longer? DH and I are both off work, young DCs. Do we need some post-Boxing Day traditions?

Just read post back and concerned I sound a bit whiney, so just for context, I'm always stupidly busy and stressed at work throughout December, so no chance to enjoy any festivities until Christmas Eve.

We go out to buy a real tree on Christmas Eve, and then we put it up and decorate it and the house that afternoon and early evening. It helps to keep the feeling fresh too, never mind the tree.

We also just open immediate family gifts on Christmas Day, and then open other gifts from family and friends on Boxing Day. We've got friends who get more gifts, (more DCs, extended family, wider worldwide friendship group), and they spread opening them out across a few days. It does help to prolong the Christmas spirit, and to give time to really appreciate the gifts, rather than doing them all in a rush. Writing or drawing thank you notes too can be made a more special, fun occasion.

I agree. I love the build up and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were lovely but Christ I'm bored stiff now! Really got the post-Christmas blues and itching to get back to work but still have another week to go.